Gene Essential For Retinal Development Identified


A gene that is essential for retinal development has been identified by researchers at the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, who claim to have found that the six3 gene to be a 'doorman' gene that effectively wards off chemicals that would otherwise impede retinal formation.

Scientists at St. Jude's found that 'switching off' the gene during the development of lab mice enabled signaling proteins to interrupt and halt the animals' retinal development – even when the retina was surrounded with a plentiful supply of growth-promoting pigmented epithelium - leading researchers to observe that the six3 gene binds and neutralises retina disrupting 'wnt' proteins.

Writing in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, lead researcher Dr Guillermo Oliver claims that the discovery could help scientists to better realise the potential of stem cell or other cell replacement therapies used to restore vision in patients with retinal disorders.

24th September 2010

<<<more eye health news


Laser Eye Surgery Enquiry Form

Complete this form if you would like information about laser eye surgery including costs & suitablity.